Mission of Deeds

Mission of Deeds is a volunteer-supported nonprofit in Reading that gives new beds and gently used donated furniture, kitchen items and basic household goods, free of charge, to people in great need. Its clients include veterans, people who were previously homeless, survivors of domestic abuse, refugees, older adults, people with disabilities and victims of fire or other tragedies. The goal is that every client receives these essentials while being treated with kindness, respect and compassion.

The organization grew out of one man’s dream. Founder Tony Triglione, a Winchester businessman who grew up poor himself, was haunted by images of children and their mothers sleeping on floors and eating on milk crates. He started Mission of Deeds to change that, and today it serves thousands of families and individuals across Middlesex and Essex counties plus Chelsea, Revere and Winthrop. Donors can contribute household items, give money or support the work through donor-advised funds.

What to Know

• It was founded in 1993 and is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
• It is funded entirely by private donations and does not receive government grants.
• Donation pickups are by appointment and cover Reading and ten nearby towns, including Woburn, Melrose and Lexington.
• Donated furniture must be clean, undamaged, free of pet fur and small enough to carry up a narrow staircase.
• Sheets, blankets, comforters and dish towels are accepted only when new.